Distress predicts utilization of psychosocial health services in oncology patients.

Distress and unmet needs were related to higher rates of psychosocial service utilization during the 12 months following assessment of symptoms. These results support the continued mandate for evaluation of distress and suggest that psychosocial screening may be assisting in directing referrals and enhancing comprehensive care for patients. As psychosocial services grow, the need for continued evaluation is recommended to determine if psychology and chaplaincy services are utilized at higher rates as available providers increase.